As North Korea prepares for its 9th Party Congress in early next year, it has highlighted the Five Major Guidelines for Party Building in the New Era as a key achievement of the 8th Central Committee.
The party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, emphasized in a front-page article on the 18th that strengthening the party, the strategic headquarters of the revolution, is the primary and essential task to ensure the triumph of the socialist cause.
The paper lauded Secretary Kim’s efforts in advancing party consolidation, stating that the party has become more unified organizationally and ideologically, with its combat readiness and leadership role reaching unprecedented heights. It spotlighted the Five Major Directions for Party Building in the New Era introduced at the 6th Plenary Meeting of the 8th Central Committee in late December 2022, which focus on enhancing political, organizational, ideological, disciplinary, and work-style aspects.
The newspaper emphasized that the period of the 8th Central Committee has been dedicated to faithfully inheriting the founding ideology and spirit that define the party’s revolutionary essence and mode of existence, while thoroughly implementing the Five Major Guidelines for Party Building in all party activities. It asserted that this is the foundation for the vibrant growth and boundless future of its dignified and powerful party.
Moreover, the article noted that since the 8th Party Congress in 2021, they have normalized the regular convening of crucial party meetings, including the Party Congress, Central Committee Plenary Sessions, and Political Bureau meetings, while also improving their operational methods. It also highlighted achievements in revising party bylaws, reinforcing grassroots party organizations, and systematizing personnel management.
The newspaper claimed that over the past five years, the party has steadfastly defended the people’s interests and fostered their well-being, regardless of favorable or challenging circumstances. It declared that the period of the 8th Central Committee stands as a monumental textbook of revolutionary party building, crystallizing the exceptional political acumen of the Secretary. This era, the paper asserted, not only instills pride but also ignites courage and confidence to achieve even greater victories.
North Korea is expected to elect its 9th Central Committee ahead of the 9th Party Congress, likely to be held early next year. Subsequently, the 9th Central Committee is anticipated to convene the party congress, establish new party regulations, and outline significant national policy directives for the future.